Amman, April 26 (Petra) -- The Cabinet approved on Sunday a wide range of economic, tax, investment and social policy measures aimed at boosting growth, improving public services and strengthening fiscal stability.
A key decision was the release of JD 15 million in overdue export support payments to 72 industrial companies for claims from 2019–2021.
The move is expected to improve liquidity, support production and enhance industrial competitiveness. Companies owed over JD 500,000 would be eligible for government-guaranteed financing, while smaller claims would be paid directly through the Ministry of Finance.
To further support investment, the government approved tax incentives in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone, including a 50% reduction in property and land taxes (for debts before 2026) and full exemption from penalties for those settling dues by the end of 2026. These measures aim to stimulate investment and real estate activity.
In the agricultural sector, the Cabinet endorsed amendments to wholesale market regulations to improve oversight, regulate trade, protect farmers and consumers and allow municipalities to jointly establish markets.
The reforms are designed to modernise agricultural marketing and reduce price distortions.
The government extended the tax settlement and reconciliation programme until June 2026, allowing taxpayers to resolve outstanding dues from previous years (up to end of 2024), while excluding newer debts.
On investment cooperation, Jordan approved a $100 million joint investment company between the Social Security Investment Fund and the Oman Investment Authority, targeting sectors such as energy, ICT, agriculture, mining, tourism and infrastructure.
Institutional and governance reforms included assigning the Independent Election Commission to oversee chambers of commerce and industry elections to ensure transparency.
In education and social policy, the Cabinet approved reforms to the university student support fund, increasing funding to JD 40 million and distributing grants more evenly across governorates, benefiting around 60,000 students.
A major new initiative for students includes the launch of free public school transport, starting in southern regions and gradually expanding nationwide.
Social protection reforms introduced a new system for preparing and supporting orphans transitioning from care homes to independent life, extending support until age 26.
Finally, the Cabinet approved administrative restructuring in the Ministry of Health and the Income and Sales Tax Department to improve efficiency, digitalisation and risk management in public administration.
//Petra// AK
